Contractors are set to begin the installation of concrete barriers along Interstate 81 near Strasburg, Virginia. The work will take place between mile marker 299.6 in Warren County and 295.4 in Shenandoah County, starting on the night of Sunday, May 18. These overnight lane closures will occur from Sunday through Thursday nights for approximately two weeks.
The barrier installation is part of the I-81 Corridor Improvement Program (CIP), which aims to add a third southbound lane within the project limits. Most of the construction will be carried out in the median, with concrete barriers separating traffic from the work area.
According to VDOT, “Recently completed shoulder strengthening along southbound I-81 allows traffic to move to the right, creating space for the concrete barriers.” After installing these barriers, construction vehicles may enter and exit the median during daytime hours in both directions. Motorists are advised to exercise caution.
A speed limit of 60 miles per hour has been set for this work zone throughout the project’s duration. Drivers should remain vigilant for construction equipment moving within and around the work zone at various points. All scheduled activities are subject to weather conditions.
The project includes replacing a bridge over Cedar Creek, widening a bridge over the CSX railway, and constructing a sound-barrier wall along northbound I-81 just south of exit 296 (Route 55). In October 2024, Shirley Contracting Company LLC was awarded a $58.6 million contract by the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) for this project, which is expected to be completed by fall 2028.
This initiative is part of a larger $3 billion CIP that encompasses 65 construction projects and operational improvements along Virginia’s 325-mile stretch of I-81. Additional information can be found on Improve81.org.
Other significant projects under CIP in VDOT’s Staunton District include ongoing Staunton-area widening and Weyers Cave truck-climbing lanes projects. Future projects include Harrisonburg-area widening slated for 2026 and Winchester-area widening planned for 2028.
For real-time traffic alerts and traveler information, motorists can dial 511 or visit https://511.vdot.virginia.gov/. The VDOT Customer Service Center is available around-the-clock at 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623) or through its mobile-friendly website at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov.
VDOT encourages residents to follow updates via their Facebook and X (Twitter) accounts or visit their webpage at https://www.vdot.virginia.gov/.
The VDOT Staunton District serves several counties including Frederick, Shenandoah, Clarke, Warren, Page, Rockingham, Augusta, Highland, Rockbridge, Alleghany, and Bath.
